Actor Dayo Okeniyi explored the intricacies of bringing Leighton Vance to life in the Apple TV+ series Dark Matter. Okeniyi’s character, Leighton Vance, is a key player in the multiverse saga of physics professor Jason Dessen (Joel Edgerton).
Dayo Okeniyi Discusses His Role as Leighton Vance in Apple TV+’s Dark Matter
Leighton Vance, played by Dayo Okeniyi, is a wealthy businessman who inherited his technology company, Velocity Industries, from his grandfather. He is described as young, sharp, and having a strong desire for success. Vance agrees to fund Jason Dessen’s research on building a machine capable of traveling between parallel universes. AVance is portrayed as truthful and warm. And yet he is also depicted as terrifying and willing to do whatever it takes to ensure the success of the machine and his legacy. The character is developed further in the series than in the book, giving him a greater purpose and exploring his motivations in more depth.
Okeniyi emphasized that Vance is not simply a villain but a complex character driven by ambition and a desire for a return on his investment. Additionally, he revealed that he collaborated with the show’s creators to ensure the character was grounded and avoided becoming a stereotypical antagonist. Okeniyi also discussed the differences between the show’s portrayal of Vance and his depiction in the books, highlighting the exploration of Vance’s upbringing and its impact on his character development.
Furthermore, Okeniyi shared his excitement about pushing the boundaries of the character and delving into his complexities. He also offered a behind-the-scenes glimpse, expressing his admiration for the intricate sets and the unique experience of witnessing multiple versions of the character Jason on set. Overall, Okeniyi’s portrayal of Leighton Vance adds depth and intrigue to the series, leaving viewers with a deeper understanding of the character’s motivations and choices.
“Dark Matter” is currently available to watch on Apple TV+.
Okeniyi focused on uplifting Black culture
Dayo Okeniyi is a dynamic force in the entertainment industry. His acting portfolio spans a diverse range of roles, from his NAACP Image Award-nominated performance in Emperor. to his role as a family patriarch in Rise. He has graced both the big and small screens, starring in films like Hypnotic and Fresh. He also appeared in television series like See and Shades of Blue.
But Okeniyi’s impact extends beyond the screen. As a co-founder of Positive Vibes Only (PVO) Global, he actively champions Black culture through events, collaborations, and initiatives that celebrate Black excellence and inspire positive change. This commitment to uplift and empower his community sets Okeniyi apart as a multi-faceted talent and a dedicated advocate for social progress.
